The farm was part of the Nunthorpe entry and, unknown to us, the committee had put us forward for a conservation award. We were really pleased to win a Silver Gilt Medal. This is one down from a Gold Medal and, considering we hadn't done anything 'extra' to win an award we're chuffed to think that all our work is being appreciated.

The Tees Valley area as a whole did really well gaining lots of awards and medals. Saltburn did particularly well as the best coastal town, railway station and park with the Valley Gardens. The area often gets run down in the media but most people take a real pride in their communities and that certainly was proved with these awards. If you are interested you can see the full list of awards on the Northumbria in Bloom web site.

We're waiting to hear how we have done in the North East of England Tourism Awards. The presentation is on Thursday 6th October at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland so there's not long to wait now.